The Bishop Ireton High School chapel renovations are well underway.
The exterior changes daily with the construction of a gable roof and a bell tower. The chapel also will feature a completely renovated sanctuary, new shrines and an expanded seating area to accommodate the growing student population.
The chapel has always been a special place for me. Whether it’s a quick visit in the morning before school starts or adoration during a religion class, the chapel provides a break from the chaos that school can bring, offering a place of peace and meditation. It has always been there for me, and it has seen me visit for a number of reasons over the years — to pray for a friend, teacher, exam or even college admissions. However, it is not only a place of worship but also a place of joy. In addition to the celebration of the Mass, the chapel hosts the induction ceremonies of most of our honor societies — a wonderful reminder that Jesus is present in everything we do, as St. Francis de Sales reminds us in his Direction of Intention.
It is amazing how such a small building can be so reflective of a massive history. The chapel holds the history of the church, of Ireton and of the high school journeys of each student who enters. True to the motto of the project, Ireton is “honoring our faith and building on tradition” with each brick laid, window installed and stroke painted, all combining to create a beautiful place of worship that unites all of us under one faith, one tradition, and one community. As Ireton celebrates its 60th anniversary, it is fitting that such a momentous occasion is commemorated with a new place for worship. The original chapel was dedicated in 1967, three years after the school first opened. Now, 57 years later, we are rebuilding, growing our space as we have grown our community.
The chapel has undoubtedly strengthened the sense of community at Ireton. Currently, more than 90 percent of the fundraising goal has been achieved. Alumni, current families and other supporters have come together to fund the construction of this remarkable building that will hopefully impact generations of future students as much as its predecessor impacted me. The chapel renovation project has transcended its immediate purpose, becoming a larger symbol of the way Ireton has continued to build and expand its community over its 60 years. As I build my own life, I am grateful to be supported by that ever-evolving community.
As the construction phase draws closer to the end, I will savor the sweet sound of the construction that provides a not-so-subtle accompaniment to our class instruction and I look forward to seeing the beautiful, finished chapel that is just around the corner.
